Final answer:
The Ming Dynasty reinforced Confucian traditions, the Ottoman Empire upheld Islamic principles, the Mughal rulers practiced religious tolerance to incorporate Hindu-majority subjects, and the Incas claimed descent from the sun god Inti to legitimize their rule and fortify their authority.
Step-by-step explanation:
Empires throughout history have used religion to legitimize rule and solidify their power. The Ming Dynasty of China, deeply rooted in Confucianism, enhanced its legitimacy through the reinforcement of this philosophy after the Mongol Yuan dynasty's overthrow. Ming emperors such as Zhu Di revitalized Chinese cultural traditions that were tied to Confucian ideals, strengthening their societal position and governance.
Similarly, the Ottoman Empire utilized Islam to validate their rule. Institutions like the Janissary system, parallel to the Mamluk system in Egypt, tied the state to religious policy, with the Sultan often seen as the protector and promoter of Islamic faith and culture. This was mirrored in Egypt, where Mamluk sultans built mosques and charitable institutions not only out of religious piety but also to assert their rule and curry favor with the populace.
The Mughal Empire in India, while being predominantly Muslim, encompassed a largely Hindu population. To maintain harmony and legitimacy, the Mughal rulers practiced religious tolerance, allowing for the construction of Hindu temples and respecting Hindu-customs, thus positioning themselves as benevolent and rightful leaders.
The Inca Empire underpinned their authority by claiming ancestry from the sun god Inti. They intertwined religious symbolism with statecraft, constructing temples and rituals that affirmed the divine right of their rule. This manifestation of religious connection bolstered the Inca ruler's position as a divine figure.